Introduction

Set amongst the Pennines, the Greater Manchester town of Oldham sits in between the rivers Irk and Medlock. The city was once incredibly influential during the Industrial Revolution, and was famous for its prominence in the textile industry. At the height of the boom, the town produced more cotton than France and Germany combined.
Times have of course changed, and Oldham now has moved into the home shopping, publishing and healthcare sectors amongst others. Evidence of its manufacturing past is still evident however with many mills still remaining, some of which were restored. Oldham is also a magnet for those interested in performing arts and has several notable schools and centres dotted around the city.

Ideal car

Economy
A compact, fuel-efficient economy car is perfect for Oldham where you will encounter few difficulties whilst driving. The same can be said for neighbouring towns like Bury and Rochdale.

Driving in Oldham

L

Road Driving Side

30mph

Urban Speed Limit

60mph

Rural Speed Limit

70mph

Motorway Speed Limit

Important things to note

Oldham is conveniently located close to two motorways, the M60 and M62; both are approximately 15 minutes from the town centre.
Manchester is just a 25 minute drive away from Oldham down the A62, which carries onto Huddersfield and Leeds.
Traffic on the M60 can be a problem, especially during rush hours when people commute to Manchester for work.

Highlights & Hotspots

Featuring artefacts dating back to the late 1500’s, Saddleworth museum offers an insightful look into the past for even the most seasoned of historians. The building was at the heart of the industrial revolution, and has an impressive collection of machinery and tools as a result.
Stonerig Raceway is a highly unique attraction, allowing visitors to step back to their youth and experience Scalextric on a much larger scale. The huge size and variety of tracks make the perfect setting for a bit of friendly competition that both adults and children will enjoy.
Manchester Paintball Arena is popular all year round, as all the action is indoors; it is widely regarded as Manchester’s best. There are a number of games available, including one based on Call of Duty, and the paintballs themselves are low impact to help ensure safety.
The Kings Arms is a good old-fashioned pub that has managed to retain its charm, offering a decent take on traditional British food as well as a fine range of ales and lagers. The Old Bill is also worth a try. This charming bistro is loved by locals for its cosy environment, friendly staff and delicious food.

Airport Information

Oldham is serviced by Manchester International Airport, which is a large airport which takes flights from around the globe. It is approximately 30-45 minutes‚Äô drive away from Oldham city centre, depending on traffic.By taking the M60 from the A62, you can drive clockwise towards the M56, which leads straight to the airport.